We are currently working with major house builders to help the company to achieve code level 4 and we are talking to Government to get clarification on the requirements to achieve code level 6.
If you need help to develop your plans to comply with new regulations, please call 0800 051 5687 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) or click here to email us.
A mandatory rating against the Code has been implemented for new homes since 1 May 2008.
The Code measures the sustainability of a new home, rating the ‘whole home’ as a complete package.
The Code uses a 1 to 6 star rating system to communicate the overall sustainability performance of a new home.
The Code sets minimum standards for energy and water use at each level and, within England, it replaces the EcoHomes scheme, developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE).
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Code Categories There are nine design categories within the Code for Sustainable Homes and each category has a set of criteria that are measured. If targets are reached points are awarded as follows:
Energy / CO2 |
29 |
Water |
6 |
Materials |
24 |
Surface water run off |
4 |
Waste |
7 |
Pollution |
4 |
Health and wellbeing |
12 |
Management |
9 |
Ecology |
9 |
The areas considered within the energy category, the area that offers the most potential to score points are as follows:
Dwelling emission rate |
15 |
Building fabric |
2 |
Internal lighting |
2 |
Drying space |
1 |
Energy labelled white goods |
2 |
External lighting |
2 |
Low or zero carbon technologies |
2 |
Cycle storage |
2 |
Home Office |
1 |
The latest Technical Guidance manual is published every six months by the Government to reflect the changes taking place in the Code. The latest Guide was made available in October 2008. Visit the Planning Portal for more details.
Timetable for Implementation
Target Date |
2010 |
2013 |
2016 |
Energy efficiency improvement of the dwelling compared to 2006 (Part L Building Regulations) |
25% |
44% |
Zero Carbon |
Equivalent standard within the Code for Sustainable Homes |
Code level 3 |
Code level 4 |
Code level 6 |
Building Regulations will be reviewed by 2010 in terms of bringing them in line with the proposed levels set out in the Code for Sustainable Homes for 2010 and beyond.
What about Scotland?
The Code does not apply in Scotland. EcoHomes is still in use.
What about Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland has required Code Level 3 for all public sector housing since April 2008.
What about Wales?
The National Assembly for Wales has announced it will be adopting the Code in the near future.
If you need help in meeting the legislation and regulations that affect you, call 0800 051 5687 or email us.
